The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to instruct the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery to permit independent marketers to commence fuel lifting from the newly established refinery. This resolution was adopted following a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Oboku Oforji, the representative for Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency in Bayelsa State.
During the debate, Oforji expressed concern that, since the Dangote Petroleum Refinery began operations on September 15, 2024, only major marketers have been authorized to lift products from the refinery, leading to a monopolistic situation. He argued that this exclusivity is detrimental and likened it to greed, highlighting the NNPCL’s long-standing failure to manage Nigeria’s crude and refineries effectively.
He stated, “If this monopoly is not nipped in the bud, the suffering of Nigerians caused by the scarcity of PMS will continue, and we all know the implications for the economy.” Oforji also referenced a past statement by the late MKO Abiola, emphasizing that the NNPCL lacks transparency and accountability.
Representatives from the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) have expressed concerns that, without access to lift fuel, they may be forced to resort to imports to maintain their businesses.
The lawmaker praised the Dangote Group for its role in commencing petroleum refining, suggesting that this achievement marks the beginning of Nigeria’s journey towards energy self-sufficiency. He noted that the refinery could lead to significant economic benefits, including savings in costs and foreign exchange, increased fuel availability, and attracting foreign investment.
To improve fuel availability, the House urged Dangote Refinery management to either build, acquire, or partner with stakeholders to establish tank farms or depots across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
Additionally, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas announced the formation of a panel chaired by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere, tasked with investigating the ongoing crises in the petroleum sector and proposing recommendations for improvement.
